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27/07/2004
Debate launched on future shape of local government
Ministers have launched a debate today on how local government should look in 10 years' time.
The debate will look at how local government should react to changing needs, expectations and lifestyles over the next decade.
A series of papers will be released setting out areas for discussion. Two papers are published today - one setting out the main themes of the debate and the other on local area agreements.
The aim is to build a "shared vision" of the role of local government over the next few months in partnership.
Launching the debate, Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said local government must have the capacity to make a "real difference in communities".
Key themes to be discussed include: local leadership; citizen engagement and participation; service delivery and the performance framework; and the relationship between central, regional and local government.
Mr Prescott said some of the issues would lead to some "difficult choices".
"But now is the right time to talk about them so we can map out a way forward together that will deliver services people value and the places they want to live in," he said.
"I hope all stakeholders will take this opportunity to join in the debate and come forward with ideas."
A series of meetings and events will take place with other government departments, councils and stakeholders. A strategy will be published next year setting out the shared vision for the future of local government.
(gmcg)
The debate will look at how local government should react to changing needs, expectations and lifestyles over the next decade.
A series of papers will be released setting out areas for discussion. Two papers are published today - one setting out the main themes of the debate and the other on local area agreements.
The aim is to build a "shared vision" of the role of local government over the next few months in partnership.
Launching the debate, Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said local government must have the capacity to make a "real difference in communities".
Key themes to be discussed include: local leadership; citizen engagement and participation; service delivery and the performance framework; and the relationship between central, regional and local government.
Mr Prescott said some of the issues would lead to some "difficult choices".
"But now is the right time to talk about them so we can map out a way forward together that will deliver services people value and the places they want to live in," he said.
"I hope all stakeholders will take this opportunity to join in the debate and come forward with ideas."
A series of meetings and events will take place with other government departments, councils and stakeholders. A strategy will be published next year setting out the shared vision for the future of local government.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:All parts will have a dry day. A lot of cloud expected through the day. A little brightness breaking through at times along the coast. Maximum temperature 16 °C.Tonight:This evening will be dry. The rest of the night will remain dry with variable amounts of cloud and some clear periods. Light southwesterly winds. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
